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Washington, DC…Today, 12 years after they first became an item, Matt
Whitmer surprised his longtime sweetheart Leigh Lacy, by proposing to her before
hundreds of surprised and then cheering visitors in the National Archives Rotunda
for the Charters of Freedom. Matt popped the question at the site where
they first kissed on an eighth grade field trip, in front of the Declaration of Independence.

The couple was hand in hand, in line to see the Charters of Freedom. Matt
got down on one knee to propose and then shouted: “She said yes!” "I’m
amazed. I’m so excited. I can’t believe this” Leigh
exclaimed.

“I am delighted for Matt and Leigh. This proposal confirms that
the National Archives is a “must-see” destination for Washingtonians,
tourists, and true romantics alike,” said Archivist of the United
States Allen Weinstein.

The lovebirds, now both 25, first met in school in Springboro, a suburb
of Dayton, OH. They now live in Atlanta, where Matt works for an advertising
company and Leigh teaches seventh grade. Matt had planned this romantic
getaway to Washington, DC, under the guise of a work commitment. No
word yet on a wedding date for the couple, but the National Archives staff
suggested a July 4th celebration would be appropriate.